Bitter Cucumbers

Last year, our cucumbers were bitter. What causes this and how can I change it?

I often hear this complaint from many gardeners after an unusually hot dry summer. Heat and moisture stress are thought to cause the bitter flavor in cucumbers. Mulch the soil, once it warms, with shredded leaves, pine needles or other organic matter. Mulching helps keep the soil evenly moist and cooler during the extremely hot weather. Make sure to water thoroughly and whenever the top few inches of soil are crumbly and slightly moist. If the problem persists, peel the skins of bitter cucumbers to eliminate the bitter flavor that is usually found just below the skin.